Human Resources
Published: March 18, 2024 | Updated: 18th March 2024
Hampshire law firm Warner Goodman has unveiled the WG Academy Programme, an initiative it hopes will support the personal development and career aspirations of its employees.
The new initiative builds on the firm’s pre-existing sponsorship and training schemes which, since 2010, have helped to boost the careers of 71 employees – many of whom have gone on to become Associates and Partners within the firm.
It comes after an eleven-month development phase which was overseen the firm’s Partner in charge of WG Academy, Dan Thompson, and HR Manager Alice Browne.
Expressing his pride in the initiative, Dan said: “We have invested extensively in research, planning, and resource development for the WG Academy Programme, and we’re delighted to finally offer this exciting new opportunity to our staff.
“The firm is committed to fostering and developing emerging talent across all practice areas. The WG Academy serves as a valuable platform for supporting our exceptional team members and expanding their learning opportunities.
“With various new job development programmes and qualification pathways now available, the WG Academy empowers our staff to seize these opportunities and thrive in their chosen fields.
“It consolidates the firm’s existing sponsorship and training initiatives, fostering a stronger sense of community and identity among members while providing a nurturing environment for knowledge sharing and peer support.
“Promoting internal talent has been a cornerstone of our success. Our training and support cultivate exceptional lawyers equipped with the skills and motivation we value. This approach ensures a higher calibre of professionals who embody the essence of a ‘Warner Goodman person’.”
Staff at the Portsmouth office
During the launch, Dan Thompson, Alice Browne, and Managing Partner Andy Munden toured Warner Goodman’s five Hampshire-based offices to introduce the WG Academy Programme to staff. They personally congratulated new WG Academy members, distributed welcome packs, and extended their best wishes for success in their studies.
Following the launch, Andy Munden, Managing Partner, said: “The WG Academy results from all the work we’ve been doing over the last few years in sponsoring staff members and helping them develop personally and professionally into their roles.
“The WG Academy provides an updated, coherent, and centralised platform to achieve that, particularly by taking advantage of modern methods to qualify as a Solicitor, Legal Executive, or Licenced Conveyancer.
“Additionally, it offers opportunities for non-legal professional development in areas like Accounts, HR, Marketing, and IT, ensuring a well-rounded workforce.
“At Warner Goodman, we’ve always valued internal talent and acknowledged our staff’s dedication to self-improvement. We now have a structured framework with the WG Academy to enhance these efforts further.
“Our ethos has always been that there are no glass ceilings, and we acknowledge individuals for their contributions. This is evident in our senior staff and Partners, many of whom have benefited from our previous sponsorship programmes. By recognising talent and fostering improvement, we pave the way for the firm’s continued growth and success.
“With the firm’s support, someone starting in a junior role can earn their qualifications, advance professionally, and reach the pinnacle of success within our organisation.”
Staff at Warner Goodman’s Fareham office
Alice Browne, HR Manager, added: “The WG Academy serves as a significant attraction for individuals seeking a career in law or looking to advance within the field.
“To express interest in the WG Academy programme, applicants are encouraged to specify this when applying for roles, especially those suited for Warner Goodman Academy participation.”
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